The University of Houston football team put on pads for the first time this spring in practice No. 3 on Tuesday afternoon at Carl Lewis Field. The rain came, but didn't stop the intensity as players vie for starting spots.

"I was talking to our coaches today and I really think our ball skills have improved greatly," said second-year defensive coordinator Brian Stewart. "More so than the first two practices, we really seemed to handle the tempo of the offense. I didn't see anyone out there cower down. They were excited about the contact."

The players also admit to a different feel on days they know hitting will be the emphasis at practice.

"You can see the difference in practice mainly in the running drills," said returning starting linebacker Phillip Steward. "The coaches want to see us more physical and thudding up. Today we had a lot of scuffles because we have been waiting so long to hit the offense and the same with the other side of the ball."

"There was a lot more intensity today and we were hyped up to be hitting," said sophomore offensive lineman Ralph Oragwu. "The coaches are not allowing for any mistakes. For me there is a big sense of urgency because I am trying to earn a starting spot."

POSITION CHANGE FOR SPRING: The coaches are always evaluating talent to determine a player's best fit on a team. This spring five players have changed positions for the Cougars.
- Austin Elrod moves from quarterback to wide receiver
- Jeffery Lewis moves from running back to defensive back
- Austin Lunsford moves from offensive line to defensive line
- Shane Ros moves from defensive back to wide receiver
- DeAnthony Sims moves from defensive line to offensive line

UP NEXT: The Cougars will be on the field one last time before heading out for spring break, March 14-18. The team will practice on Thurs., March 10 at 4 p.m.